Fiber & the Gall Bladder

Fresh fruits and veggies are packed with fiber.

The gallbladder is an organ directly under your liver that works with your liver to store and release bile, helping to digest fats in food. Getting recommended amounts of dietary fiber helps keep your gallbladder healthy. Even so, the American Cancer Society reports that while the gallbladder aids in food digestion, people can lead normal lives after having their gallbladders removed.

Fiber and Gallbladder Disease

Gallbladder disease, a condition that often causes gallstones, can lead to abdominal pain -- especially after meals -- loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Studies published in 2011 in the “Indian Journal of Community Medicine” and in 2009 in “Alternative Medicine Review” reported that low fiber intakes significantly increase your risk for developing gallstones, and high-fiber diets help prevent gallstone formation.

Daily Fiber Recommendations

The publication "Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010" recommends women shoot for 25 grams of fiber daily and men consume 38 grams of fiber. Choose fiber-rich whole grains, legumes, vegetables, fruits and nuts. If you have gallbladder disease, talk to your doctor about fiber supplements -- including flax meal mixed with apple juice -- suggests the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Fiber After Gallbladder Surgery

If you need to have your gallbladder removed due to complications of gallbladder disease, check with your doctor about appropriate post-surgery fiber consumption. It’s generally best to start slow and gradually increase your fiber intake. The University of North Carolina Department of Surgery notes that starting with bland foods -- such as bananas and toast -- is usually easily tolerated after surgery. UNC, however, also suggests increasing fiber as soon as possible to help prevent or reduce constipation.

Other Gallbladder-Friendly Choices

In addition to boosting dietary fiber intake, making other dietary changes helps keep your gallbladder healthy and reduces your risk for gallbladder disease. The review published in 2009 in “Alternative Medicine Review” reported that eating poly- and monounsaturated fats -- found in nuts, seeds, nut butter, avocados, olives and plant-based oil -- helps lower your risk for gallstone formation. The study published in 2011 in the “Indian Journal of Community Medicine” noted that limiting your intake of refined sugar also helps prevent gallstones.

About the Author

Erin Coleman is a registered and licensed dietitian. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in dietetics and has extensive experience working as a health writer and health educator. Her articles are published on various health, nutrition and fitness websites.